Manchester United’s terrible start to the new season looks to go from bad to worst after star striker Robin van Persie is likely to have a knee operation that could keep him out for an extended amount of time, Metro reports.

The 31-year-old was supposed to undergo surgery the previous season after his hat-trick sealed a stunning comeback in the second leg of the Champions League against Olympiakos, but it was put on hold so he could feature for the Netherlands at the World Cup.

Having played through the injury in Brazil, it looks as though the pain has caught up to him as many believe his performance his being halted by the knock.

It looks as though he will need to complete the planned procedure but risk his career as he might not ever be able to be completely 100% fit given his age and the toll it may take on him.

This would come as a huge setback for Louis van Gaal as he may now be forced to add another striker to his shopping list even though they are yet to complete any major signing of a much needed centre-back.